Educator of the Week: Clare Markos

JACKSON, Tenn. — It’s time now to recognize our Educator of the Week, brought to you by the Tennessee Education Lottery. Today we take a trip north Jackson to meet with this week’s honoree.

Clare Markos is a Junior Cubs teacher at the University School of Jackson. She tells us what made her decide to teach Junior Cubs.

“I think when I had been at USJ for about a year, I realized just how much love and warmth and excitement that you get from being with the children and seeing them grow and seeing them learn. And the environment is so nurturing that it’s just a wonderful place to be,” said Markos.

Markos has been at USJ for 14 years. She shares what her favorite part of teaching is.

“The fun of seeing those little eyes light up when they learn something new or when they say ‘I can do this!’ That is so much fun. And these are just the most precious children. And the parents. The parents are always so supportive. And so I feel like I have two sets that I get to love and take care of,” said Markos.

Markos shares what she focuses on in her class and how it’s important to her students’ overall development.

“We focus on fine motor skills, gross motor skills, learning just how to work as a class, how to share with our friends,” said Markos.

She ends by telling us that no matter the age group, education is worth it in the end.

“It’s going to be rewarding. Whatever you choose, whatever age you choose, if you’re doing my age, where we’re just learning procedures and learning how to share, or if you’re doing another end where you’re reading, you’re going to be rewarded when you see that child growing,” said Markos.

Markos is now eligible for the Tennessee Education Lottery Educator of the Month award.

To vote for her or any other nominees, go to the Tennessee Education Lottery website.To nominate an educator for our Educator of the Week award, email us at educator@wbbjtv.com.